Educational Studies, Master of Arts (MA)

Students enrolled in Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) programs in Elementary Education, Middle Grades Education, Secondary Education, Art Education, or Music Education who do not wish to pursue teacher certification or complete the professional requirements for student teaching, apprenticeship teaching, or internship may apply instead to complete requirements for an M.A. Degree in Educational Studies. Individuals who select this option are not recommended for state certification. A minimum of 33 credits, of which at least 21 must be in Education courses (and must include the capstone course), are required for completion of the degree. The professional semester, which typically includes the student teaching or apprenticeship experience, must be replaced by course work approved by the student’s advisor. A request to switch to the M.A. degree program in Educational Studies must be filed with the Dean’s office and Registrar on the appropriate form.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Studies may also meet the needs of individuals who wish to pursue advanced study but who do not wish or need state certification. A minimum of 33 credits, of which at least 21 must be in Education courses (and must include the capstone course), are required for completion of the degree, which is planned with a faculty advisor. Candidates completing the M.A. degree in Educational Studies are not recommended for state certification.

Candidates who receive the M.A. degree in Educational Studies may apply to return to the University within five years as a certification-only student. A prerequisite for admission as a certification-only student is successful completion of the appropriate GACE content tests and College of Education Dean’s approval.